A Capital Campaign for Revitalization in Ridgefield
Dear Faithful,
As the heirs of our historic and beautiful SSPX campus in Ridgefield, CT, we have taken appropriate measures to maintain and enhance this expansive property ever since the SSPX took ownership for use as a seminary over 40 years ago. Since then, it has been a constant challenge not only to build Christ the King Church but also to restore the buildings and create new spaces for use as a Retreat House, Church, Academy and other needs for a constantly increasing population of clergy, parishioners, students, faculty, and staff.
With over a century of use for the Retreat House and over 40 years since building the main structure of Christ the King Church, the buildings and property are in need of extensive and immediate repairs. Much of the most urgent work has been completed thanks to a very large loan from the District, but we must repay the loan and there remains much more work still to be done. We must raise $3.5 Million to repay the loan and complete the work. The Revitalization in Ridgefield Campaign brochure details the work and related costs. I am happy to answer any questions you might have after your reading and reflection.
Realizing that these are difficult times, I launch this campaign to raise the necessary funds with great confidence in your generosity and determination to meet our needs, as Catholics have always risen to the needs and challenges, for the greater glory of God. I am calling on you to give careful and thoughtful consideration and to contribute to your greatest capacity.
The presence of SSPX in Ridgefield has evolved since its early Seminary days, and its importance has remained constant. When many other churches closed due to the current Covid crisis, SSPX in Ridgefield remained opened, administering the sacraments and welcoming new faithful even in the most trying of times. Because of this, many discovered the beauty of the Traditional Latin Mass and parishioners, new and old, have continued attending and our chapels have increased in numbers and devotion.
With your help we will continue to be the responsible beneficiaries and caretakers not only of the noble buildings and property left by the Jesuits here in Ridgefield, but also and more importantly, of the apostolic spirit that The SSPX brings to this area. Through the grace of God and your prayers and generous contributions, St. Ignatius Retreat House, Christ the King Church, Padre Pio Academy and St. Joseph's House will stand the test of time, preserving the great legacy of the SSPX in Ridgefield, CT. All the friends and benefactors of St Ignatius Retreat House and Christ the King Church are prayed for especially by our community, during the daily Rosary and are remembered at the monthly Mass offered for them and their intentions.
I thank you in advance for answering the call to be a collaborator in this very fruitful work.
Sincerely in Christ the King and Mary Queen,
Father Jean Violette, FSSPX
The Total Cost of the Revitalization is Estimated at $3.5 Million
